Restoration of canal infrastructure for the protection of freshwater habitats and the development of sustainable aquaculture
Croatian Waters, as a beneficiary of funds under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme of the Republic of Croatia for the 2021-2027 programming period, is implementing a significant project entitled "Improvement of the condition of freshwater habitats (ponds) canals". The project is financed through Measure II.7. "Increasing the potential of aquaculture sites", and is aimed at the restoration and rehabilitation of inlet and outlet canals that supply warm-water (carp) ponds with water. The goal is to restore inlet and outlet canals that supply warm-water ponds, with an emphasis on the ecological and economic value of these habitats.
Freshwater habitats are key to the conservation of species and sustainable fish production. Due to long-term lack of maintenance, canals have become overgrown, water bodies have dried up, and habitats have been degraded. The program envisages the rehabilitation of 15 canals with a total length of 71 km, which will restore water flow, improve the state of the ecosystem, aquaculture production and the flood protection system.
Warm-water ponds within the Natura 2000 network have an economic and ecological role, are important for the conservation of wetland birds and aquatic organisms and are covered by the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive. Sustainable aquaculture and functional water infrastructure are key to preserving natural values. Due to climate change and droughts, ponds are facing a shortage of water, so it is necessary to improve the condition of canals and watercourses.
Inlet and drainage systems are also important for flood protection because they enable the control of excess water and the protection of people and property.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has secured funds through the Measure II.7. tender for infrastructure development and reduction of negative environmental impact. The project is being implemented in accordance with Priority 2 of the European Union - promotion of sustainable aquaculture. Croatian Waters successfully applied for the project and secured 100% public support for it in the amount of EUR 10,000,000.00, of which 70% are European Union funds and 30% are funds from the Republic of Croatia. The total value of the program is EUR 10,832,051.59 including VAT, of which the works are estimated at EUR 10,737,751.59, and general costs at EUR 94,300.00.
The project will be implemented at 15 locations in six continental counties. It includes canal cleaning, mowing, selective cutting of vegetation and repairs to buildings without changing their appearance. Of particular importance is the rehabilitation of the weir on the Ilova River, where the old weir will be removed and a new one will be built. Work on the weir began in April 2025, with a completion date of 12 months. Work on the other locations is planned for the third quarter of 2025, and the entire project is expected to be completed by 31 October 2026.
The implementation of this program will achieve multiple benefits, preserve natural resources, strengthen the system of protection against the harmful effects of water and improve the conditions for the further development of aquaculture in Croatia. This is a strategically important project that harmonizes economic development with the principles of sustainability and environmental protection.